Circular RNA ath-circ032768, a competing endogenous RNA, response the drought stress by targeting miR472-RPS5 module

CircRNAs (circular RNAs) reduce the abundance of miRNAs through ceRNA (competing endogenous RNA), to regulate many physiological processes and stress responses in plants. However, the role of circRNA in drought stress is poorly understood. Through ring identification and sequencing verification of ath-circ032768, bioinformatics analysis predicted the interaction of ath-circ032768-miR472-RPS5, and further obtained transgenic plants overexpressing ath-circ032768 and silencing STTM-miR472. The change in drought stress was analysed using biochemical and molecular biological methods. Sequencing and biological analysis confirmed that ath-circ032768, miR472 and RPS5 were responsive to drought stress, and changes in gene expression were consistent with the prediction of ceRNA. The silencing vectors ath-circ032768 and STTM-miR472 were constructed using molecular biology techniques, and stable transgenic plants with drought tolerance obtained. Further physiological and biochemical studies showed that ath-circ032768 could bind to miR472, and that miR472 could bind to the RPS5 gene, resulting in decreased expression of RPS5. Hence, ath-circ032768 can competitively inhibit degradation of RPS5 by miR472 through ceRNA. This process is accompanied by increased expression of DREB2A, RD29A and RD29B genes. Through the ath-circ032768-miR472-RPS5 pathway, the RPS5 stress resistance protein interacts with DREB2A protein to enhance expression of downstream drought resistance genes, RD29A and RD29B, and participate in the regulation mechanism of plant drought resistance, thereby improving drought tolerance of plants.

Long-term remission achieved in a rare case of pyoderma gangrenosum and ulcerative colitis with surgery and postoperative infliximab

Background Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare extraintestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease. In recent years, the use of biologics in PG has been on the rise and has shown promising results. The surgical treatment of PG remains a topic of debate, with limited reports on the use of postoperative biologic therapy. Case reprt: This case report describes a 52-year-old woman who presented with multiple skin ulcers, pus discharge, and bloody diarrhea. The patient was diagnosed with PG with ulcerative colitis based on medical history, ulcer appearance, histopathology, treatment response, and the presence of ulcerative colitis. Surgical intervention was performed to repair the ulcers and amputate the fourth finger and fourth toe of both feet. Additionally, infliximab induction therapy was initiated two weeks after the surgery. The patient's intestinal symptoms demonstrated improvement, and after 10 months of treatment, the lesions were completely healed with no recurrence of skin ulcers. Conclusions This case report highlights a rare instance of successful treatment for PG with ulcerative colitis through a combination of surgery and postoperative infliximab.

Integrated multi-omics reveal gut microbiota-mediated bile acid metabolism alteration regulating immunotherapy responses to anti-α4β7-integrin in Crohn's disease

Gut microbiota and related metabolites are both crucial factors that significantly influence how individuals with Crohn's disease respond to immunotherapy. However, little is known about the interplay among gut microbiota, metabolites, Crohn's disease, and the response to anti-α4β7-integrin in current studies. Our research utilized 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid to induce colitis based on the humanized immune system mouse model and employed a combination of whole-genome shotgun metagenomics and non-targeted metabolomics to investigate immunotherapy responses. Additionally, clinical cases with Crohn's disease initiating anti-α4β7-integrin therapy were evaluated comprehensively. Particularly, 16S-rDNA gene high-throughput sequencing and targeted bile acid metabolomics were conducted at weeks 0, 14, and 54. We found that anti-α4β7-integrin therapy has shown significant potential for mitigating disease phenotypes in remission-achieving colitis mice. Microbial profiles demonstrated that not only microbial composition but also microbially encoded metabolic pathways could predict immunotherapy responses. Metabonomic signatures revealed that bile acid metabolism alteration, especially elevated secondary bile acids, was a determinant of immunotherapy responses. Especially, the remission mice significantly enriched the proportion of the beneficial Lactobacillus and Clostridium genera, which were correlated with increased gastrointestinal levels of BAs involving lithocholic acid and deoxycholic acid. Moreover, most of the omics features observed in colitis mice were replicated in clinical cases. Notably, anti-α4β7 integrin provided sustained therapeutic benefits in clinical remitters during follow-up, and long-lasting remission was linked to persistent changes in the microbial-related bile acids. In conclusion, gut microbiota-mediated bile acid metabolism alteration could play a crucial role in regulating immunotherapy responses to anti-α4β7-integrin in Crohn's disease. Therefore, the identification of prognostic microbial signals facilitates the advancement of targeted probiotics that activate anti-inflammatory bile acid metabolic pathways, thereby improving immunotherapy responses. The integrated multi-omics established in our research provide valuable insights into potential mechanisms that impact treatment responses in complex diseases.

China Alzheimer's Disease and Neurodegenerative Disorder Research (CANDOR) -A Prospective Cohort Study for Alzheimer's Disease and Vascular Cognitive Impairment

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) are the two main causes of dementia. AD and VCI share similar symptoms of cognitive decline and may be attributable to similar risk factors. Establishing a prospective cohort to compare VCI and AD would help to understand vascular risk factors related to dementia.

OBJECTIVES

China Alzheimer's disease and Neurodegenerative Disorder Research (CANDOR) study is a prospective multicenter cohort study. It aims to study the similarities and differences between AD and post stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) in neuroimaging changes, disease progression, and multiple omics studies.

DESIGN

This is an ongoing study. From July 31, 2019, to August 1, 2022, we recruited 1449 participants with ages between 40 and 100 years. The cohort included three groups: AD group, PSCI group, and normal cognitive (NC) group. Data were collected in face-to-face interviews at baseline, and will be followed up every year for 4 years. The PSCI group had additional follow-ups at 3-month and 6-month after enrollment. Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) included high-resolution sequences for intracranial arteries. Cognitive assessments and follow-up information will be prospectively collected. Biological specimens including blood and urine at baseline were collected and tested.

PARTICIPANTS

The targeted sample size of PSCI group was 500, AD group with 600 and NC group with 2000. There were 1449 participants enrolled. Include 508 participants were in NC group, 387 in AD group and 554 in PSCI group.

MEASUREMENTS

Demographics, clinical parameters, and medical examinations were collected and performed. Cognitive assessment was performed to assess all cognitive domains including memory, language, executive function, and orientation function.

CONCLUSIONS

The CANDOR study is a prospective cohort study. Data from this cohort provide us an opportunity to investigate the contribution of vascular factors to dementia pathogenesis.

Value of 2D ultrasonography in the diagnosis and evaluation of intrauterine adhesions - a prospective study

RESEARCH QUESTION

What is the value of 2D ultrasonography in the diagnosis and assessment of intrauterine adhesions (IUA)?

DESIGN

This was a prospective study conducted at a hysteroscopy centre.

RESULTS

Of a total of 600 subjects recruited, 41 dropped out and 559 were finally enrolled and analysed. The observed 2D ultrasonography features, in decreasing order of frequency, were 'irregular endometrium' (37.9%), 'broken endometrial echo' (23.4%), 'thin endometrium' (13.7%), 'loss of endometrial echo' (13.1%,), 'hyperechoic focus' (12.5%) and 'fluid in the cavity' (8.8%). The sensitivity of individual ultrasound features ranged from 8.8% to 37.9%, whereas the specificity of individual ultrasound features ranged from 78.9% to 100%. When all the six ultrasound features were considered together, the sensitivity and specificity were 71.7% and 66.2% respectively. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of ultrasound diagnosis in the mid-proliferative phase, peri-ovulatory phase and mid-luteal phase did not appear to be significantly different statistically, although the results in the mid-proliferative phase appeared to be consistently higher than those in the mid-luteal phase. In women confirmed to have IUA, the likelihood of the adhesions being severe in nature in the presence of zero, one, two or three or more ultrasound features was 8.7%, 23.0%, 40.2% and 80.5%, respectively (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings in this study support the notions that ultrasonography examination in women suspected to have IUA cannot replace hysteroscopy in the diagnosis of the condition. However, it does provide useful clinical information regarding severity and could help in the planning of hysteroscopy to optimize management.

Flammulina velutipes-derived carbon dots for fluorescence detection and imaging of hydroxyl radical

Monitoring hydroxyl radical (•OH) fluctuation is of great importance to study some relative pathological processes and to predict early diagnosis of diseases. Efficient •OH-responsive fluorescent sensors based on carbon dots (CDs) have been reported, but most researches have focused on the new strategies for the synthesis and doping of the CDs. Herein, a kind of biomass CDs (F-CDs) with Flammulina velutipes (F. velutipes) as the carbon source was prepared by a one-step hydrothermal method without any additional modification. The prepared F-CDs have remarkable sensitivity and selectivity and there is a good linear relationship from 0 to 12 μM with a low detection limit of 95 nM for quantitative •OH assay. With excitation-independent emission, favourable biocompatibility and low toxicity, the F-CDs can penetrate cell membranes as •OH-responsive fluorescent sensors to detect intracellular •OH in A549 cells stimulated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and successfully monitor the •OH concentration levels by the corresponding fluorescence change. Given the combined benefits of the green and eco-friendly approach, the F-CDs show promise as novel theranostics tools for early detection and treatment of related diseases.

Comparative efficacy and safety of combination therapy with infliximab for Crohn's disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

PURPOSE

There is not enough information to position medications for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD). Therefore, using a network meta-analysis and systematic review, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of combination therapy and infliximab (IFX) monotherapy in CD patients.

METHODS

We identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in CD patients who were given IFX-containing combination therapy versus IFX monotherapy. Induction and maintenance of clinical remission were the efficacy outcomes, while adverse events were the safety outcomes. The surface under cumulative ranking (SUCRA) probabilities was used to assess ranking in the network meta-analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 15 RCTs with 1586 CD patients were included in this study. There was no statistical difference between different combination therapies in induction and maintenance of remission. In terms of inducing clinical remission, IFX + EN (SUCRA: 0.91) ranked highest; in terms of maintaining clinical remission, IFX + AZA (SUCRA: 0.85) ranked highest. There was no treatment that was significantly safer than the others. In terms of any adverse events, serious adverse events, serious infections, and infusion/injection-site reactions, IFX + AZA (SUCRA: 0.36, 0.12, 0.19, and 0.24) was ranked lowest for all risks; while IFX + MTX (SUCRA: 0.34, 0.06, 0.13, 0.08, 0.34, and 0.08) was rated lowest for risk of abdominal pain, arthralgia, headache, nausea, pyrexia, and upper respiratory tract infection.

CONCLUSION

Indirect comparisons suggested that efficacy and safety of different combination treatments are comparable in CD patients. For maintenance therapies, IFX + AZA was ranked highest for clinical remission and lowest for adverse events. Further head-to-head trials are required.

Short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic low anterior resection with "dog ear" invagination anastomosis for mid and distal rectal cancer a propensity score matched analysis

Background

The lateral intersecting margin (dog-ear) was a weak spot of the double stapled technique (DST), We designed "dog-ear" invagination anastomosis (DAIA), which could eliminate the "dog-ear" in laparoscopic anterior resection.

Patients and methods

A total of 202 patients underwent elective curative LLAR + DST (n = 143) or LLAR + DAIA (n = 59) were enrolled in the study. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to minimize the adverse effects. The clinical data between LLAR + DST and LLAR + DAIA was compared, and the effect of factors on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) was analyzed.

Results

After PSM, 53 pairs of the LLRA + DST and LLRA + DAIA patients were enrolled in the study. The LLRA + DAIA group has a higher level (3.50 ± 1.03 vs. 2.87 ± 1.10, P = 0.01) of the anastomosis than that of the LLRA + DST group. Patients in LLAR + DAIA group have a lower incidence of protecting loop ileostomy compared to LLAR + DST group (20.75% vs. 5.66%, P < 0.05). The LLRA + DAIA patients presented better rates of LARS compare to LLRA + DST patients at 6 months (major LARS 37.74% (n = 20) vs. 67.93% (n = 36); P = 0.007) and 12 months (major LARS 13.21% (n = 7) vs. 20.37% (n = 11); P = 0.03) after surgery. The OS and DFS rates were similar (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic low anterior resection with "dog-ear" invagination anastomosis technique are well-established procedures for patients with low rectal cancer. "Dog-ear" invagination anastomosis technique may reduce the incidence of protecting loop ileostomy and significantly affect LARS score, and demonstrate a positive impact on the quality of life after surgery.

Brain-targeted Ginkgolide B-modified Carbonized Polymer Dots for Alleviating Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion Injury

Ischemic stroke (IS) is the leading cause of death in the world, and there is still a lack of effective treatments. Ginkgolide B (GB) can antagonize platelet activating factor receptor...

Gut microbiota-related bile acid metabolism-FXR/TGR5 axis impacts the response to anti-α4β7-integrin therapy in humanized mice with colitis

The gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism are key determinants of the response of inflammatory bowel disease to biologic therapy. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the interactions between the response to anti-α4β7-integrin therapy and the gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism remain unknown. In this research, we investigated the role of gut microbiota-related bile acid metabolism on the response to anti-α4β7-integrin therapy in a humanized immune system mouse model with colitis induced by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid. We found that anti-α4β7-integrin significantly mitigated intestinal inflammation, pathological symptoms, and gut barrier disruption in remission-achieving colitis mice. Whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing demonstrated that employing baseline microbiome profiles to predict remission and the treatment response was a promising strategy. Antibiotic-mediated gut microbiota depletion and fecal microbiome transplantation revealed that the baseline gut microbiota contained common microbes with anti-inflammatory effects and reduced mucosal barrier damage, improving the treatment response. Targeted metabolomics analysis illustrated that bile acids associated with microbial diversity were involved in colitis remission. Furthermore, the activation effects of the microbiome and bile acids on FXR and TGR5 were evaluated in colitis mice and Caco-2 cells. The findings revealed that the production of gastrointestinal bile acids, particularly CDCA and LCA, further directly promoted the stimulation of FXR and TGR5, significantly improving gut barrier function and suppressing the inflammatory process. Taken together, gut microbiota-related bile acid metabolism-FXR/TGR5 axis may be a potential mechanism for impacting the response to anti-α4β7-integrin in experimental colitis. Thus, our research provides novel insights into the treatment response in inflammatory bowel disease.

Symptom burden, psychological distress, and symptom management status in hospitalized patients with advanced cancer: a multicenter study in China

BACKGROUND

The management of physical symptoms and psychological distress of cancer patients is an important component of cancer care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the symptom burden, psychological distress, and management status of hospitalized patients with advanced cancer in China and explore the potential influencing factors of undertreatment and non-treatment of symptoms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 2930 hospitalized patients with advanced cancer (top six types of cancer in China) were recruited from 10 centers all over China. Patient-reported MD Anderson Symptom Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scales and symptom management-related information were collected and linked with the patient's clinical data. The proportion of patients reporting moderate-to-severe (MS) symptoms and whether they were currently well managed were examined. Multivariable logistic regression models were applied to explore the factors correlated to undertreatment and non-treatment of symptoms.

RESULTS

About 27% of patients reported over three MS symptoms, 16% reported over five, and 9% reported over seven. Regarding psychological distress, the prevalence of HADS-anxiety was 29% and that of PHQ-9 depression was 11%. Sixty-one percent of patients have at least one MS symptom without any treatment. Sex [odds ratio (OR) = 2.238, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.502-3.336], Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG; OR = 0.404, 95% CI 0.241-0.676), and whether currently undergoing anticancer treatment (OR = 0.667, 95% CI 0.503-0.886) are the main factors correlated with the undertreatment of symptoms. Age (OR = 1.972, 95% CI 1.263-3.336), sex (OR = 0.626, 95% CI 0.414-0.948), ECOG (OR = 0.266, 95% CI 0.175-0.403), whether currently undergoing anticancer treatment (OR = 0.356, 95% CI 0.249-0.509), and comorbidity (OR = 0.713, 95% CI 0.526-0.966) are the main factors correlated with the non-treatment of symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that hospitalized patients with advanced cancer had a variety of physical and psychological symptoms but lacked adequate management and suggests that a complete symptom screening and management system is needed to deal with this complex problem.

Case Report: Balanced Reciprocal Translocation t (17; 22) (p11.2; q11.2) and 10q23.31 Microduplication in an Infertile Male Patient Suffering From Teratozoospermia

Two chromosomal abnormalities are described in an infertile man suffering from teratozoospermia: balanced reciprocal translocation t (17; 22) (p11.2; q11.2) and a microduplication in the region 10q23.31. Twenty genes located on the breakpoints of translocation (e.g., ALKBH5, TOP3A, SPECC1L, and CDC45) are selected due to their high expression in testicular tissues and might be influenced by chromosome translocation. Four genes located on the breakpoints of microduplication including FLJ37201, KIF20B, LINC00865, and PANK1 result in an increased dosage of genes, representing an imbalance in the genome. These genes have been reported to be associated with developmental disorders/retardation and might be risk factors affecting spermatogenesis. Bioinformatics analysis is carried out on these key genes, intending to find the pathogenic process of reproduction in the context of the translocation and microduplication encountered in the male patient. The combination of the two chromosomal abnormalities carries additional risks for gametogenesis and genomic instability and is apparently harmful to male fertility. Overall, our findings could contribute to the knowledge of male infertility caused by genetic factors.

Characterization of allergic inflammation in chronic uterine cervicitis

Female genital tract chronic inflammation is common in clinics; the pathogenesis is not fully understood yet. House dust mite (HDM) involves the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases in human. This study aims to identify HDM-specific allergic response in the cervix of patients with cervical inflammation. Patients (n = 80) with chronic cervicitis (CC) and non-CC control (NC) subjects (n = 80) were recruited into this study. Vaginal lavage fluids (VLF) were collected from CC patients and NC subjects. Cellular components and fluid part of VLF were separated by centrifugation, and analyzed by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We found that a portion (52 out of 80) of CC patients responded to HDM, manifesting positive skin prick test, and HDM-specific IgE and IgG was detected in the VLF (designated CCp patients). VLF of CCp patients showed a Th2-dominant profile. HDM-specific Th2 cells were detected in VLF in CCp patients. Exposure to HDM in the culture induced proinflammatory cytokine release from CCp VLF CD4⁺ T cells. Exposure to CCp VLF CD4⁺ T cell-conditioned medium induced de novo Th2 response. Direct exposure to HDM induced allergic response in the cervix of CCp patients. In summary, a portion of CC patients respond to HDM challenge in the cervix. Exposure to HDM induces an allergy-like response in the cervix of CCp patients.

Integrated analysis of whole genome and transcriptome sequencing reveals a frameshift mutation associated with recessive embryonic lethality in Holstein cattle

Embryo loss is an important factor affecting fertility in dairy production. HH2 was identified as a haplotype on chromosome 1 associated with embryonic lethality in Holstein cattle. In the current study, both short- and long-read WGS was performed on four carriers and four non-carriers of HH2 to screen for variants in concordance with HH2 haplotype status. Sequence variation analysis revealed five putative functional variants of protein-coding genes, including a frameshift mutation (g.107172616delT) in intraflagellar transport protein 80 (IFT80) gene. Transcriptome analysis of whole blood indicated that no gene exhibited significantly differential expression or allele-specific expression between carriers and non-carriers in the candidate region. This evidence points to g.107172616delT as the highest priority causative mutation for HH2. Protein prediction reveals that the frameshift mutation results in a premature stop codon to reduce the peptide chain from 760 to 383 amino acids and greatly alters the structure and function of IFT80 protein. Our results demonstrate that the use of a combination of multiple high-throughput sequencing technologies is an efficient strategy to screen for the candidate causative mutations responsible for Mendelian traits, including genetic disorders.

Flagellin maintains eosinophils in the intestine

Eosinophils (Eos) are the major effector cells in allergic response. The regulation of Eo is not fully understood yet. Flagellin (FGN) has immune regulatory functions. This study aims to elucidate the role of FGN in maintaining Eo at the static status in the intestinal tissues. A mouse food allergy (FA) model was developed. Eo mediator levels in the serum or culture supernatant or intestinal lavage fluids were assessed and used as an indicator of Eo activation. The results showed that less FGN amounts were detected in the FA mouse intestinal tissues, that were negatively correlated with the Eo activation. Mast cell-derived chymase bound FGN to induce FGN degradation. FGN formed complexes with FcγRI on Eos to prevent specific antigens from binding FcγRI, and thus, to prevent Eo activation. Administration of FGN efficiently alleviated experimental FA. In conclusion, FGN plays a critical role in maintaining Eos at static status in the intestine. Administration of FGN can alleviate experimental FA. FGN may be a novel drug candidate to be used in the treatment of Eo-related diseases.

Tnfaip6 Secreted by Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuates TNBS-Induced Colitis by Modulating Follicular Helper T Cells and Follicular Regulatory T Cells Balance in Mice

Objective: To investigate the immunological mechanism of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods: Mice with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis were intraperitoneally injected with phosphate-buffered saline, BM-MSCs, BM-MSCs with tumor necrosis factor-induced protein 6 (Tnfaip6) knockdown mediated by RNA interference recombinant adenovirus, and BM-MSCs-infected with control adenovirus or recombinant mouse Tnfaip6. The disease activity index, weight loss, and histological scores were recorded. Serum levels of Tnfaip6 and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-21, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-10 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relative expression levels of these cytokines, B-cell lymphoma 6 (BCL-6) and fork-like transcription factor p3 (Foxp3) in the colon were determined by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). BCL-6 and Foxp3 are the master regulators of follicular helper T cells (Tfh) and follicular regulatory T cells (Tfr), respectively. The infiltration of Tfh and Tfr in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) and spleens was analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: Compared to the normal control group, the expression levels of BCL-6 and IL-21 in the colon, Tfh infiltration, and ratios of Tfh/Tfr in the MLNs and spleen, and the serum concentrations of IL-21 and TNF-α increased significantly in the colitis model group (p < 0.05). Intraperitoneal injection of BM-MSCs or Tnfaip6 ameliorated weight loss and clinical and histological severity of colitis, downregulated the expression of BCL-6, IL-21, and TNF-α, upregulated the expression of Foxp3, IL-10, and Tnfaip6 (p < 0.05), increased Tfr and reduced the infiltration of Tfh in the MLNs and spleen, and downregulated the Tfh/Tfr ratio (p < 0.05). On the other hand, BM-MSCs lost the therapeutic effect and immune regulatory functions on Tfh and Tfr after Tnfaip6 knockdown. Conclusion: Tfh increase in the inflamed colon, Tfh decrease and Tfr increase during the colitis remission phase, and the imbalance of the Tfh/Tfr ratio is closely related to the progression of IBD. Tnfaip6 secreted by BM-MSCs alleviates IBD by inhibiting Tfh differentiation, promoting Tfr differentiation, and improving the imbalance of Tfh/Tfr in mice.

Effects of single and multiple transplantations of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells on the recovery of ovarian function in the treatment of premature ovarian failure in mice

BACKGROUND

Currently, there is no effective treatment for premature ovarian failure (POF), and stem cell therapy is considered the most promising treatment. Human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have shown good regenerative ability in various diseases, including POF; however, their underlying mechanism and dosage for POF treatment remain unclear. This study aimed to compare the effect of single and multiple injections of hUC-MSCs on ovarian function repair in chemotherapy-induced POF.

METHODS

Female mice were intraperitoneally injected with 30 mg/kg busulfan and 120 mg/kg cyclophosphamide (CTX) to induce POF. In the single hUC-MSC injection group, hUC-MSCs were transplanted into mice D7 after CTX and busulfan administration, while in the multiple injection group, hUC-MSCs were transplanted on D7, D14, and D21 after CTX and busulfan administration. We evaluated the ovarian morphology, fertility, follicle-stimulating hormone and estradiol concentrations, follicle count, POF model, and cell transplantation results. In addition, real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and miRNA and mRNA chips were used to evaluate the effect of the cell therapy.

RESULTS

Ovary size, number of follicle at all developmental stages, and fertility were significantly reduced in the POF group compared with the control. Under hUC-MSC treatment, the ovarian morphology and follicle count were significantly restored, and fertility was significantly increased. By comparing the single and multiple hUC-MSC injection groups, we found that the anti-Müllerian hormone and Ki-67 levels were significantly increased in the multiple hUC-MSC group on D60 after chemotherapy. The expression of stimulating hormone receptors, inhibin α, and inhibin β was significantly restored, and the therapeutic effect was superior to that of the single hUC-MSC injection group.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that hUC-MSCs can restore the structure of injured ovarian tissue and its function in chemotherapy-induced POF mice and ameliorate fertility. Multiple hUC-MSC transplantations have a better effect on the recovery of ovarian function than single hUC-MSC transplantation in POF.

Curative Effect of Early Full Nursing Combined with Postdischarge Continuation Nursing on Patients after Craniocerebral Trauma

Early full nursing helps patients with some dysfunctions speed up the reorganization of central nervous system functions and coordinate muscle and limb activities. Postdischarge continuation nursing for patients who have not fully recovered after being discharged from the hospital can transfer nursing work from the hospital to the family to meet their nursing needs. In this study, early full nursing combined with postdischarge continuation nursing was used for patients with traumatic brain injury to explore its efficacy and its impact on patients' motor function, quality of life, and complications. The results of the study show that the total effective rate of the observation group (95.92%) was higher than that of the control group (85.71%). At discharge and 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after discharge, the upper limb Fugl-Meyer score, lower limb Fugl-Meyer score, ARAT score, FIM score, 4 dimensions of GQOLI-74 score, and Barthel index scores of the observation group were higher than those of the control group in the same period. The postoperative complication rate (10.20%) of the observation group was lower than that of the control group (26.53%). Early full nursing combined with postdischarge continuation nursing can improve the rehabilitation effect, effectively promote the recovery of motor function in patients with traumatic brain injury, improve the quality of life, and reduce postoperative complications.

Efficacy of a combined Er:YAG laser and Nd:YAG laser in non-surgical treatment for severe periodontitis

Severe periodontitis is challenging to treat. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a combined Er:YAG laser (ERL) and Nd:YAG laser (NDL) in non-surgical treatment for severe periodontitis. One week after supragingival scaling, 32 systemically healthy patients with stage III or IV periodontitis were randomly divided into a control group (16 subjects) and a test group (16 subjects). The control group was treated by scaling and root planning (SRP) with ultrasonic equipment and manual instruments, and the test group was treated by SRP as well as ERL and NDL. Before treatment, the following clinical parameters were recorded at baseline: debris index (DI), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and percentage of bleeding on probing (BOP %). Two months after therapy, the clinical parameters were recorded again, and the results between the groups were compared. All clinical parameters were significantly improved in both groups after therapy. For moderately deep periodontal pockets (4 mm ≤ PD ≤ 6 mm), the gains in CAL were greater in the test group (1.17 ± 1.47 mm) than in the control group (0.46 ± 2.78 mm), while no significant difference was found for PD reductions after therapy between the two groups. For deep periodontal pockets (PD > 6 mm), the differences in all of the clinical parameters were similar between the test group and the control group. In this short-term study, ERL and NDL radiation exhibited potential advantages in improving the clinical attachment level compared to conventional SRP in the non-surgical treatment of severe periodontitis.

Use of facial vein graft with vascularized composite auricular helical rim flap for alar rim defects

Nasal alar defects lead to facial disfigurement, and nasal ala reconstruction is an important treatment option. The vascularized composite auricular flap based on the superficial temporal artery is an ideal option for a full-thickness nasal alar defect. However, the pedicle length and the discrepancy in artery diameter between the recipient vessel and flap pedicle continue to be major problems for free auricular composite tissue transfer. Considering that the angular artery is occasionally absent and the course of the infraorbital segment of the facial vein is constant, there are often no suitable vessels around the recipient site for anastomoses to the short pedicle of the flap. In the absence of a suitable recipient artery, an infraorbital segment of the facial vein measuring 2.5cm in length was taken as a graft for the anastomosis of the superficial temporal artery and superior labial artery. End-to-end anastomosis was performed easily. The flap was inset to reconstruct the contralateral ala. The facial vein graft for anastomosis of the superficial temporal artery and branch of the facial artery is a reliable and easy method to resolve the problem of a short pedicle and large artery discrepancy for nasal ala reconstruction with a vascularized composite helical rim flap.

Genomic scan revealed KIT gene underlying white/gray plumage color in Chinese domestic geese

Goose is an important type of domesticated poultry. The wild geese that are regarded as the ancestors of modern domestic geese present gray plumage. Domesticated, geese have both white and gray feathers. To elucidate the genetic mechanisms underlying the formation of white and gray plumage in geese, we resequenced the whole genome of 18 geese from six populations including white and gray goose breeds. The average sequencing depth per individual was 9.81× and the average genome coverage was 96.8%. A total of 346 genes were detected in the top 1% of F_ST scores of gray- and white-feathered geese, and a significant F_ST site was located in the intron region within the KIT gene, the 18 bp deletion in KIT having the strongest potential association with white feathers. It has been reported that a number of genes are associated with plumage colors in birds. However, no studies have identified the relationship between KIT and plumage color in birds at present, although the white coat can be attributed to mutations in KIT in some mammals. Our study showed that that KIT is a plausible candidate gene for white/gray plumage color in Chinese domestic geese.

Case Report: IL-21 and Bcl-6 Regulate the Proliferation and Secretion of Tfh and Tfr Cells in the Intestinal Germinal Center of Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of interleukin (IL)-21 and B cell lymphoma protein-6 on germinal center follicular helper T (Tfh) cells and follicular regulatory T (Tfr) cells and its relationship with the clinical features of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods: The expression of peripheral blood cytokines IL-21 and Bcl-6 mRNA was detected by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The distribution characteristics of Tfh and Tfr cells were detected using the triple immunofluorescence staining analysis.

Results: The expression of IL-21 and Bcl-6 mRNA was upregulated in the ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn disease (CD) groups compared with that in the control group. Triple immunofluorescence staining showed that the number of Tfh cells in the intestinal germinal center obviously increased in the UC and CD groups compared with that in the control group, whereas the number of Tfr cells reduced.

Conclusion: This study suggested that the Tfr and Tfh cells might be involved in the regulation of IBD. Bcl-6 and IL-21 can regulate the Tfh/Tfr ratio in the intestinal germinal center, promoting the occurrence and development of IBD.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation for the Treatment of Cognitive Frailty

As life expectancy increases, frailty and cognitive impairment have become major factors influencing healthy aging in elderly individuals. Frailty is a complicated clinical condition characterized by decreased physiological reserve and multisystem abnormalities. Cognitive frailty is a subtype of frailty that has aroused widespread concern among the scientific community and public health organizations. We herein review the pathogenesis of cognitive frailty, such as chronic inflammatory response, immunological hypofunction, imbalanced oxidative stress, reduced regenerative function, endocrine dysfunction, and energy metabolism disorder. Although existing interventions show some therapeutic effects, they do not meet the current clinical needs. To date, studies using stem cell technology for treating age-related diseases have achieved remarkable success. This suggests the possibility of applying stem cell treatment to cognitive frailty. We analyzed stem cell-based strategies for targeting anti-inflammation, antioxidation, regeneration, and immunoregulation using mesenchymal stem cells, as well as potential therapeutic targets for cognitive frailty. Based on this investigation, we propose a highly effective and low-cost stem cell-based replacement strategy. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the prospect of stem cell transplantation for improving cognitive frailty. In this review, we aim to provide the scientific background and a theoretical basis for testing cell therapy in future research.

The role of structure and function changes of sensory nervous system in intervertebral disc-related low back pain

Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal symptom, which can be developed in multiple clinical diseases. It is widely recognized that intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) is one of the leading causes of LBP. However, the pathogenesis of IVD-related LBP is still controversial, and the treatment means are also insufficient to date. In recent decades, the role of structure and function changes of sensory nervous system in the induction and the maintenance of LBP is drawing more and more attention. With the progress of IVDD, IVD cell exhaustion and extracellular matrix degradation result in IVD structural damage, while neovascularization, innervation and inflammatory activation further deteriorate the microenvironment of IVD. New nerve ingrowth into degenerated IVD amplifies the impacts of IVD-derived nociceptive molecules on sensory endings. Moreover, IVDD is usually accompanied with disc herniation, which could injure and inflame affected nerves. Under mechanical and pro-inflammatory stimulation, the pain-transmitting pathway exhibits a sensitized function state and ultimately leads to LBP. Hence, relevant pathogenic factors, such as neurotrophins, ion channels, inflammatory factors, etc., are supposed to serve as promising therapeutic targets for LBP. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively summarize the current evidence on 1) the pathological changes of sensory nervous system during IVDD and their association with LBP, and 2) potential therapeutic strategies for LBP targeting relevant pathogenic factors.

Enhancement of Pancreatic Cancer Therapy Efficacy by Type-1 Matrix Metalloproteinase-Functionalized Nanoparticles for the Selective Delivery of Gemcitabine and Erlotinib

Purpose

Pancreatic cancer (PCa) is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths by 2030. Gemcitabine (GEM) combined with erlotinib (ERL) have been approved by the FDA for locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer therapy since 2005. Type-1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) has been recognized as a critical mediator of several steps in PCa progression including activating TGF-β or releasing latent TGF-β from LTBP-1, resulting in increased collagen production and cleavage collagen.

Methods

In the present research, GEM and ERL co-loaded nanoparticles (GEM/ERL NPs) were prepared. A non-substrate MT1-MMP binding peptide was decorated onto the GEM/ERL NPs surface.

Results

M-M GEM/ERL NPs exhibited the highest uptake ability (67.65 ± 2.87%), longest half-life period, largest area under the curve, and the best tumor inhibition efficiency (69.81 ± 4.13%). The body weight, blood urine nitrogen (BUN), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) of the system were steady when tested in mice model.

Conclusion

In conclusion, M-M GEM/ERL NPs protected the drugs in the plasma, improved cellular uptake capacity, exhibited the most remarkable tumor cell inhibition ability, and showed the most efficient tumor growth inhibition capacity in vivo. M-M GEM/ERL NPs could be applied as an efficient and safe system for the synergistic combination chemotherapy of PCa.

A joint analysis strategy reveals genetic changes associated with artificial selection between egg-type and meat-type ducks

Egg-type ducks and meat-type ducks are predominantly commercial or indigenous and have been subjected to artificial directional selection. These two duck types differ substantially in body shape, production performance and reproductivity. However, the genetic changes associated with phenotypic differences remain unclear. Here, we compared the two duck types at the genomic and transcriptomic levels. We identified a large number of SNPs and genes in genomic divergent regions in terms of F_ST and θπ values. The corresponding genes were mainly enriched in embryonic development function and metabolic pathway. RNA-seq analysis also revealed differential gene expression in the liver and gonads. The differentially expressed genes were functionally associated with signal transmission and substance metabolism respectively. Furthermore, we found that seven genes were related to differentiation between the two types by both g genome and transcriptome analysis and were plausible candidate genes. These genes were annotated to GO categories of cell development and disease immunity. These findings will enable a better understanding of the artificial selection history of meat and egg ducks and provide a valuable resource for future research on the breeding of these two lineages.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) for the management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): A systematic review

There are no licensed drugs for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and there is a lack of consensus on the best outcome measures for controlled trials. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of GLP-1 RAs in the management of NAFLD, the degree of heterogeneity in trial design and the robustness of conclusions drawn from these clinical trials. We searched publication databases and clinical trial registries through 2 November 2019 for clinical trials with NAFLD. We evaluated improvements in histological findings, noninvasive markers of hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, insulin resistance and anthropometric measures. Our final analysis included 24 clinical trials, comprising 6313 participants with a mean duration of 37 weeks. Four clinical trials, including RCT (n = 1), single-arm studies (n = 2) and case series studies (n = 1), used biopsy-confirmed liver histological change as their end-points. The remaining studies (n = 20) used surrogate end-points. GLP-1 RAs were effective for the improvement in hepatic inflammation, hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. More importantly, GLP-1 RAs showed promise in improving the histological features of NASH. In addition, 8 ongoing trials were identified. In this systematic review of published and ongoing clinical trials of the efficacy of GLP-1RAs for NAFLD, we found that GLP-1 RAs are effective for hepatic steatosis and inflammation, with the potential to reverse fibrosis. Further prospective studies of sufficient duration using histological end-points are needed to fully assess the efficacy of GLP-1 RAs in the management of NAFLD.

Identification of genetic effects and potential causal polymorphisms of CPM gene impacting milk fatty acid traits in Chinese Holstein

Our previous GWAS revealed 83 significant SNPs and 20 promising candidate genes associated with milk fatty acid traits in dairy cattle. Out of them, the carboxypeptidase M (CPM) gene contains a genome-wide significant SNP, Hapmap49848-BTA-106779, which is strongly associated with myristic acid (C14:0; P = 0.0064). Herein, we aimed to confirm the genetic effects of CPM on milk fatty acids in Chinese Holstein. Seven SNPs were detected by re-sequencing the sequences of entire exons and 3000 bp of up-/downstream flanking regions of the CPM gene, of which three were in 5' flanking region, one in the 3' UTR and three were in the 3' flanking region. Using the Haploview 4.1, we estimated the LD among the identified SNPs and found two haplotype blocks. With the animal model, we performed the SNP- and haplotype-based association analyses, and observed that these SNPs and haplotype blocks mainly had strong genetic associations with medium-chain saturated fatty acids (caproic acid, C6:0; caprylic acid, C8:0; capric acid, C10:0; and lauric acid, C12:0) (P < 0.0001-0.0257). In addition, using the Genomatix software, we predicted that three SNPs in the 5' flanking region of CPM (g.45079507A>G, g.45080228C>A and g.45080335C>G) changed the transcription factor binding sites for PREF (progesterone receptor biding site), ZBRK1 (transcription factor with eight central zinc fingers and an N-terminal KRAB domain), SOX9 (sex-determining region Y-box 9, dimeric binding sites), SOX6 (sex-determining region Y-box 6) and FOXP1-ES (alternative splicing variant of FOXP1, activated in ESCs). Further, the dual-luciferase reporter assay showed these three SNPs altered the transcriptional activity of CPM gene (P ≤ 0.0006). In summary, using the post-GWAS strategy, we first confirmed the significant genetic effects of CPM with milk fatty acids in dairy cattle, and identified three potential causal mutations.

Calycosin enhances the bactericidal efficacy of polymyxin B by inhibiting MCR-1 in vitro

AIM

To examine the synergistic effect of calycosin combined with polymyxin B against various mcr-1-positive bacterial strains.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study, we found a potential inhibitor of MCR-1, calycosin, that could significantly restore the antibacterial activity of polymyxin B. The synergistic effect of calycosin combined with polymyxin B against various mcr-1-positive bacterial strains was confirmed by checkerboard minimum inhibitory concentration assays, time-kill curve assays and disk diffusion assays. The fractional inhibitory concentration indexes ranged from 0·15 ± 0·03 to 0·28 ± 0·05, and the zones of inhibition increased from 13·33 ± 0·47 to 17·67 ± 0·47 mm with the combined therapy of calycosin and polymyxin B. In addition, the combined therapy significantly reduced the number of bacteria in the medium. However, at the concentrations required for the synergistic effect with polymyxin B, calycosin alone showed no effect on bacterial growth or MCR-1 production. Calycosin treatment exhibited no cytotoxicity to HeLa cells or A549 cells at calycosin concentrations below 32 µg ml^-1 .

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, our results suggested that calycosin could be used as a potential MCR-1 inhibitor to restore the bactericidal effect of polymyxin B without affecting bacterial viability or existing cytotoxicity.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The synergistic effect of calycosin combined with polymyxin B against various mcr-1-positive bacterial strains paves the way for future pharmaceutical applications of calycosin in fighting mcr-1-positive bacterial infections.

MiR-1203 is involved in hepatocellular carcinoma metastases and indicates a poor prognosis

Non-coding RNAs, especially miRNAs, have been shown to be important regulators in multiple human diseases, including malignant tumors, congenital disease, and autoimmune disease. In this study, we screened the metastasis-associated miRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Based on the miRNA microarray screening, miR-1203 was confirmed to be the most significant miRNA and was also highly associated with HCC metastases. Bioinformatics prediction indicated direct binding of miR-1203 in SOCS3, which was also confirmed by a dual luciferase reporter assay, resulting in suppression of SOCS3. Increased miR-1203 also promoted invasion of HCC cells through suppressing SOCS3, while no effect on cell proliferation or apoptosis was detected. Circulating expression of miR-1203 and SOCS3 might serve as a predictor of metastases and poor prognosis in HCC patients. In conclusion, miR-1203 might promote HCC metastasis by decreasing SOCS3. MiR-1203 predicts a poor outcome in HCC patients and thus might serve as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of HCC.

MicroRNA-520a-3p suppresses non-small-cell lung carcinoma by inhibition of High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1)

OBJECTIVE

Currently, pathogenesis of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is still unknown and the treatment is far from ideal. Therefore, we investigated the effect of inhibiting microRNA-520a-3p in NSCLC cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

NCI-H157 cells were treated with microRNA-520a-3p analogs for 48 h, or microRNA-520a-3p analogs and its inhibitor, for a total of 48 h. Many tests were performed, including MTT, flow cytometry, wound healing assay and transwell assay. The tumor model was established, and HMGB1 mRNA was detected by RT-PCR. Protein levels of HMGB1, MMP-2, MMP-9, Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase-3 were assessed by Western Blot.

RESULTS

microRNA-520a-3p could significantly inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of NCI-H157 cells, inducing their apoptosis. microRNA-520a-3p inhibited tumor growth and decreased the mRNA and protein levels of HMGB1. Additionally, it decreased the Bcl-2/Bax ratio, MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression, and increased caspase-3 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

microRNA-520a-3p exhibited an effective inhibition on NCI-H157 tumor growth likely by inhibiting HMGB1 expression.

Hyperpolarized relaxometry based nuclear T1 noise spectroscopy in diamond

The origins of spin lifetimes in quantum systems is a matter of importance in several areas of quantum information. Spectrally mapping spin relaxation processes provides insight into their origin and motivates methods to mitigate them. In this paper, we map nuclear relaxation in a prototypical system of [Formula: see text] nuclei in diamond coupled to Nitrogen Vacancy (NV) centers over a wide field range (1 mT-7 T). Nuclear hyperpolarization through optically pumped NV electrons allows signal measurement savings exceeding million-fold over conventional methods. Through a systematic study with varying substitutional electron (P1 center) and [Formula: see text] concentrations, we identify the operational relaxation channels for the nuclei at different fields as well as the dominant role played by [Formula: see text] coupling to the interacting P1 electronic spin bath. These results motivate quantum control techniques for dissipation engineering to boost spin lifetimes in diamond, with applications including engineered quantum memories and hyperpolarized [Formula: see text] imaging.

MicroRNA-520a-3p inhibits cell growth and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

MicroRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNAs that be involved in the pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of miR-520a-3p in cell growth and metastasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mimics and inhibitor of miR-520a-3p were used to identify the effects of miR-520a-3p on cell proliferation and apoptosis using methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assay and flow-cytometric method, respectively. Transwell assay was used to evaluate the cell migration and invasion. The protein expression levels related PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways were measured by Western blot.

RESULTS

The results showed that miR-520a-3p overexpression could significantly inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis, suppress cell migration and invasion. MiR-520a-3p overexpression could markedly reduce the ratio of p-AKT/AKT, p-PI3K/PI3K and Bcl-2/Bax, the levels of mTOR, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) compared with control. However, miR-520a-3p overexpression could increase caspase-3 expression compared with control group. After inhibited the expression of miR-520a-3p, the capacity of cell proliferation, migration and invasion were increased, cell apoptosis was inhibited compared with control group. The ratio of p-AKT/AKT, p-PI3K/PI3K and Bcl-2/Bax, the levels of mTOR, MMP-2 and MMP-9 were increased compared with control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggested that miR-520a-3p could suppress the NSCLC proliferation, migration and invasion through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

Identification of genetic associations of ECHS1 gene with milk fatty acid traits in dairy cattle

Our previous genome-wide association study identified 83 genome-wide significant SNPs and 20 novel promising candidate genes for milk fatty acids in Chinese Holstein. Among them, the enoyl-CoA hydratase, short chain 1 (ECHS1) and enoyl-CoA hydratase and 3-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase (EHHADH) genes were located near two SNPs and one SNP respectively, and they play important roles in fatty acid metabolism pathways. We herein validated whether the two genes have genetic effects on milk fatty acid traits in dairy cattle. By re-sequencing the full-length coding region, partially adjacent introns and 3000 bp up/downstream flanking sequences, we identified 12 SNPs in ECHS1: two in exons, four in the 3' flanking region and six in introns. The g.25858322C>T SNP results in an amino acid replacement from leucine to phenylalanine and changes the secondary structure of the ECHS1 protein, and single-locus association analysis showed that it was significantly associated with three milk fatty acids (P = 0.0002-0.0013). The remaining 11 SNPs were found to be significantly associated with at least one milk fatty acid (P = <0.0001-0.0040). Also, we found that two haplotype blocks, consisting of nine and two SNPs respectively, were significantly associated with eight milk fatty acids (P = <0.0001-0.0125). However, none of polymorphisms was observed in the EHHADH gene. In conclusion, our findings are the first to indicate that the ECHS1 gene has a significant genetic impact on long-chain unsaturated and medium-chain saturated fatty acid traits in dairy cattle, although the biological mechanism is still undetermined and requires further in-depth validation.

Comparison of microRNAs in adipose and muscle tissue from seven indigenous Chinese breeds and Yorkshire pigs

Elucidation of the pig microRNAome is essential for interpreting functional elements of the genome and understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits. Here, we extracted small RNAs from skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, and we compared their expression levels between one Western breed (Yorkshire) and seven indigenous Chinese breeds. We detected the expression of 172 known porcine microRNAs (miRNAs) and 181 novel miRNAs. Differential expression analysis found 92 and 12 differentially expressed miRNAs in adipose and muscle tissue respectively. We found that different Chinese breeds shared common directional miRNA expression changes compared to Yorkshire pigs. Some miRNAs differentially expressed across multiple Chinese breeds, including ssc-miR-129-5p, ssc-miR-30 and ssc-miR-150, are involved in adipose tissue function. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs are associated mainly with signaling pathways rather than metabolic and biosynthetic processes. The miRNA-target gene and miRNA-phenotypic traits networks identified many hub miRNAs that regulate a large number of target genes or phenotypic traits. Specifically, we found that intramuscular fat content is regulated by the greatest number of miRNAs in muscle tissue. This study provides valuable new candidate miRNAs that will aid in the improvement of meat quality and production.